Pontiac Turn Signal Diagnose

The left turn signal in my 2000 Pontiac was acting up.  The mechanic told me it was a common failure and would cost around $200 to replace.  Even the electronic flasher would be $40-50 to replace.  So, I couldn't afford to just start replacing things.

I decided to tear down this device, determine the pin out, and make sure what exact component needed replacing.  I figured someone else might benefit from my experience.

Disclaimer:  Air Bags.  You should know what that means.  If you don't, stay away from this. 

I did not disconnect anything.  But, I kept all arms and other body parts away.  I have seen these things blow people out of a car!.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1Qj75pbl8o

Step 1: Remove Cover and Signal Module

My steering wheel has a two piece plastic cover with three screws.  The screws are in the bottom.  Somebody had been working with mine because one of the screws was missing.

After removing the cover,  there are only two phillips head screws holding the module in place.  As you remove the module, carefully release the cable connector from the rear.

Comments

[Phil B]

I am wondering if your car is a Pontiac Grand Am. I just did an Instructable on the Cruise Control On/Off switch used on the Grand Am and also on the Olds Alero. I am also wondering if you solved your turn signal problem.

[Ashemha]

No, this is a van. Yes I solved my problem - but it included an order for around $40. I was not able to diagnose the failing component of the flasher - so I just bought a new one. My wife was not going to put up with my rig job for more than a few days!

[Phil B]

Thank you for the response. I understand about wives and their lack of willingness to endure clever non-factory fixes. A couple of years before Instructables our oven timer quit and a new timer was no longer available for that oven. Here is the Instructable I did on my fix. I liked it very much. It timed the oven down to the minute. But, my wife found setting the digital timer confusing. She then found a reason to buy a new oven, cooking countertop, and exhaust fan for a couple thousand dollars.